Cam Akers was expected to be one of the top running backs drafted in fantasy football this year, building on the way he finished last season as the starter in the Rams’ backfield. A torn Achilles obviously changed that, causing him to miss the upcoming season.
Predictably, that has led to Darrell Henderson Jr. being drafted much earlier than he was back in May and June. He’s the next man up at running back for the Rams, solidifying his place as a starter this season.
Pro Football Focus analyzed the biggest movers in average draft position for fantasy drafts this year and Henderson’s ADP has improved dramatically. His previous ADP was 124.9 and has risen all the way to 50.3, putting him on the fringe of the fourth and fifth rounds.
Here’s part of what PFF wrote about Henderson, suggesting fantasy players draft him despite his pricier tag now.
Henderson is definitely a player to draft if he falls to the fifth round — he should go as high as the second round. He ranks fourth in first down rate over the last two seasons and had the highest PFF grade for running backs midway into the 2020 season before injuries derailed his play. The gamble for 2021 is how long he can stay healthy, but he should be a top-10 running back for as long as he’s able to go.
Xavier Jones and Jake Funk will likely be Henderson’s backup, though there is still a chance the Rams will bring in some veteran help before the season begins. Sean McVay has been pleased with Jones and Funk, however, so any additions have been put on hold for now.
Players should feel good about drafting Henderson in the fourth round because even if his workload isn’t 20 touches per game, he has good upside thanks to his big-play ability and talent as a receiver.
[vertical-gallery id=650380]